'Downton Abbey's Julian Fellowes defends Anna Bates storyline

Downton Abbey creator and writer Julian Fellowes has defended the controversial rape storyline which aired on Sunday (October 6), stating that it was not gratuitous.

In the latest episode of the ITV period drama, Anna Bates (Joanne Froggatt) was attacked by Lord Gillingham's valet Green (Nigel Harman). The incident has led to more than 60 complaints being lodged with the broadcaster, and an as-yet-unconfirmed number with regulator Ofcom.